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Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!
This week, Lauren is joined by Karen for a conversation all about cooperative care: what it is, why it matters, and why so many dogs are simply enduring handling rather than truly feeling safe with it. Because a dog standing still at the groomers, freezing for the vet, or wriggling away from a harness isn’t necessarily “fine” at all. Often, it’s a dog with no real understanding, no predictability, and no way to say “give me a moment, I’m not comfortable with that.”
In this episode, we explore what happens when handling becomes a conversation instead of a battle. From muzzle training and harness struggles to grooming, nail clipping, tick removal, blood draws, and end-of-life care, cooperative care gives dogs a way to understand what’s happening and participate willingly, one small step at a time.
Lauren and Karen talk through some of the practical foundation skills that make the biggest difference, including permission chin targets, bar holds, head-in-a-box games, and how proofing and gradual layering help dogs build genuine confidence around handling. You’ll hear why reinforcement alone is not the same as consent, especially for food-motivated dogs who may still be deeply uncomfortable, and why giving dogs the ability to pause or opt out can completely change the emotional picture.
We also dive into the real-life impact this training can have. From smoother blood draws at the vets and calmer grooming appointments to reducing stress around harnesses and medical procedures, cooperative care isn’t just “nice training” - it’s a practical skillset that supports your relationship with your dog through every stage of life.
Along the way, Karen shares honest reflections about living with a dog who finds handling difficult, the signs she wishes she’d recognised earlier, and how changing the conversation has transformed everyday interactions that once felt stressful or confrontational.
If you want handling to feel calmer, clearer, and more collaborative for both you and your dog, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using right away.
Check out our Cooperative Care course (including the 10 Days to Happy Handling foundational learning) here.
And register for our FREE Live Cooperative Care Masterclass on Friday 5th June (12 noon - 3pm BST) at absolutedogs.me/masterclass
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